Family lead tributes to teen killed in car crash

Charles Bateman who lost his life following a car crash three days before Christmas. (s)

THE DEVASTATED family of a teenager who died in a car crash just three days before Christmas following have paid tribute to his "positive outlook on the world around him".

Charles Alexander Bateman was seriously injured in the accident in Barton, near Bidford on Saturday, December 22.

The 17-year-old from Illshaw Heath Road was driving alone when his car was involved in a crash with another car at the junction of Cleeve Road and Welford Road around 7pm.

Charles was the eldest son of Terry and Teresa Bateman and brother to six siblings - Isabelle, James, Edward, Elizabeth, Charlotte and Stephanie.

The former Kingsley Preparatory School pupil was trapped in his Ford Fiesta and had to be cut free before being treated for multiple injuries to his head, chest, pelvis and leg. He was rushed to hospital in Coventry but doctors were unable to save him.

Two people in the Land Rover Freelander also involved in the crash - a man and a woman in their 40s - were assessed at the scene but did not require any further treatment.

Mr Bateman's heartbroken family released the following statement in tribute to a 'much-loved son and brother':

"Our darling Charles, always smiling, happy, helpful son and protective brother of Isabelle, James, Edward, Elizabeth, Charlotte and Stephanie, was taken from us tragically following an accident in Bidford.

"He will always be remembered for his charming, never ending smile and positive outlook on the world around him.

"His short but well travelled life has meant that he has touched and left many loving memories in people’s hearts.

"His love and passion for agriculture and animals meant that he was always happiest outside in the fields.

"He will be greatly missed and leaves a huge hole in people’s lives."

Any witnesses to the collision, or anyone who saw the vehicles just prior to the incident, are asked to contact PC Wayne Knight in the Major Investigation Unit, Roads on 01926 415415.